Zipp 101 Beyond Black Wheelset Review
Zipp 101 Beyond Black Wheelset Review: The Speed Weaponry 2012 Zipp 101 wheels are the first fully toroidal aluminum rim. They are slightly wider and the sides are more curved than v shaped rims, and after much wind tunnel testing, are claimed to be more aerodynamic and faster for every rider at every speed, than all other shallow rims on the market.
About the 2012 Zipp 101 Beyond Black Wheel set:
Weighing in at only 1523 grams per set, these wheels share the same high quality 88/188 hubs used in all of Zipp's high end carbon fiber wheels. Zipp 101 hubs utilize large diameter 17 mm axles and quality Swiss bearings with grade 10 steel balls and ABEC 7 races. The 101 wheels ship laced with Sapim CX-Ray spokes, 20 rear and 18 up front. As of Nov 2011, all 2012 Zipp 101 wheels are offered only in "Beyond Black" featuring completely blacked out rims, spokes and hubs.
First Impression of the Zipp 101 Beyond Black Wheels:
The 101 rims arrived in sturdy cardboard boxes. Each wheel came with an instruction booklet, valve stem extender, and rim tape. I found that lightweight specialized presta turbo tubes with a 48mm stem length fit perfectly without valve stem extenders. The build quality of each wheel appeared outstanding.
The Zipp 101 toroidal shape:
As you can see in this picture, the sides of the rim are rounded (like a doughnut), from the spoke side all the way across the braking tracks. This patented toroidal shape is what effectively results in less drag while spinning down the road.
The Zip 101's in Beyond Black made for an excellent replacement to the factory black Bontrager Race Wheels on my Madone. In my opinion, they look better than the Bontragers did on this bike.
When I first rode my Madone 5.2 with the New 2012 Zipp 101's, the freewheel hub was dead quiet. However, after a few miles, it did get louder. Currently this is the most unique freewheel hub I have ever heard (but it is loud). The rims run true, roll smooth, and simply feel awesome. Going back to even the Bontrager Race series rim feels like a substantial downgrade. I can honestly say, for me these wheels are definitely here to stay!
You can always find the best deal on Zipp 101 Wheels HERE